As part of an exciting new development in the Leinster coaching programme – 40 players within the Under 13 boys’ age-group took part in skills screening sessions on Jan 15th & 22nd at North County Cricket Club.
Best practice was researched from around the world and from other high-profile sports such as Irish rugby, soccer and the GAA. Skill screening of young players ultimately allows the player and the coach to identify areas of strength along with agreed areas for development.
It also allows the players to benchmark themselves against their peers and provides a focus for future training. Key areas of their game can be identified to bring back to club and school level and become better all-round cricketers. It also provides club and school coaches with further clarity on the players' needs.
The players were put through their paces with some critical batting, bowling, fielding, wicket keeping and physical skills and drills appropriate to this age-group. Importantly, players had the opportunity to retain their own individual style by making certain decisions and aiming to execute their preferred skills. The coaches observed excitement and engagement from the players and in addition there was some thought-provoking challenges for the players to address.
Although there are large numbers within the u13 squad the Leinster coaching staff were able to accommodate all of the players over the two evenings and this week the squad members received their results.
Skill screening has just recently been introduced to the Leinster under-age coaching programme and is something we will try to introduce, in time, to all the Leinster under-age squads.